Photovoltaic Integration in Vertical Hydroponic Systems: Performance, Optimization, and Feasibility

The project investigates the integration of solar energy with hydroponic units to optimize energy efficiency and sustainability in modern agriculture. By measuring the energy consumption of 2 hydroponic units under varying light, pump, and nutrient delivery cycles, the research quantifies baseline energy demands. An educational solar unit was deployed and tested, incorporating a very small photovoltaic (PV) panel with dielectric lighting, enabling partial to full autonomy from grid electricity. Analysis based on power output revealed that residential solar panels have true feasibility for integration with small-scale hydroponic systems. By combining real-time energy monitoring with plant growth metrics, the study provides a quantitative framework for designing scalable, solar-powered hydroponic systems that are both cost efficient and more sustainable that traditional agricultural techniques. Strategies for PV integration in local and international hydroponic farms are discussed, as well as theoretical optimizations for solar power output. This research demonstrates a pathway toward fully sustainable vertical agriculture solutions and establishes a baseline for an energy-efficient system design, with potential applications in urban farming and modern agriculture.